September 8, 1934 - December 14, 2025
Bradenton, Florida - Thomas "Tom" Kema, 91, of Bradenton, Florida, who for more than 50 years owned and operated Tom's Carpet Cleaning serving the Bradenton–Sarasota area, passed away on December 14, 2025.
He was born on September 8, 1934, in Waterbury, Connecticut, to Max and Mary (Koval) Kema. Tom first married Lucy "Pat" Bell in 1961, and they were married until her passing in 1967. Together they had two sons, Tom and Peter.
In April of 1968 he married Sue Lynch, and that same year they moved to Bradenton, Florida, where Tom lived the rest of his life. Tom and Sue were married for nearly 55 years, until her death in February 2023. Through Tom's Carpet Cleaning, he faithfully served thousands of households over the decades. He was known for his excellent work, affordable prices, and genuine care for the people he met. Tom led the Sarasota County Jail volunteer ministry for 30 years, served as an elder at Church on the Rock in Palmetto, and, together with Sue, hosted a weekly church small group in their home for many years. He also supported multiple local and national charities and ministries.
At home, Tom was known in his neighborhood for his remarkable yard. He transformed his entire property into a lush garden, with natural planting areas, many trees, and dozens of hanging flower baskets. He found joy in caring for his plants, feeding the birds, and watching the many animals that visited his yard at night. Tom was a lifelong learner, with a strong interest in spiritual and biblical topics. He also enjoyed fishing, especially at night off local bridges, and made many trips with his sons to the Skyway Fishing Pier and other area spots. Tom is survived by his oldest son, Tom, with wife Kerri; grandchildren Kellie, Stephen, and Katie; and nephews and nieces around the country. He was also preceded in death by his younger son, Peter.
A memorial service to celebrate Tom's life will be held at Brown & Sons Funeral Home, 5624 26th St. W., Bradenton, FL 34207, on Sunday, January 25, 2026, from 3:00–4:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to either: - Harvest House:
https://harvesttabernacleofsarasotainc-bloom.kindful.com/ or Loving Hands Ministries (Palmetto Campus): https://app.aplos.com/aws/give/LovingHandsMinistriesInc/general. Online condolences may be expressed at www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.
